I got the Hitec Optic 6 and switched it over to mode 1 (very simple to do).  I think I'm gonna stick with that.  Based on all of your feedback, it seems that there is not much of a link between rc contols and full sized controls / skills. 

Also, pylon racing seems very exciting.  I want to get into that, and mode 1 seems to be the preferred choice there.

If I end up regretting my choice, I'll swap my Optic Six back and re-learn to fly. 

But I gotta say that you mode 2 guys pointed out a lot of things I hadn't thought of.  Thank you very much.  I'll keep those points in mind if mode 1 starts to seem like it was a bad choice.

Thanks again,
Salinas Hawk